Actinidia eriantha
Actinidia erianthafam. Actinidiaceae
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Pl. EC81 — Actinidia eriantha
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IOverview
Overview
Actinidia eriantha, commonly known as the silver vine or Chinese gooseberry, is a deciduous climbing shrub native to China's south-central and southeast regions. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun to full sunlight, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary applications, A. eriantha is valued both as a food source and an ornamental plant due to its attractive growth habit. One distinctive feature of this vine is the presence of silver-gray hairs on young stems and leaves, giving it a unique appearance.
Quick answers
What is Actinidia eriantha?
Actinidia eriantha, commonly known as the silver vine or Chinese gooseberry, is a deciduous climbing shrub native to China's south-central and southeast regions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Actinidia eriantha thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This vine is hardy in temperate regions and grows up to 10 meters tall. For successful cultivation, ensure the plant receives adequate moisture and a suitable growing environment. Propagation can be done through cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Actinidia eriantha for the first time
8steps
Start with Actinidia eriantha as a simple, rewarding project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Actinidia eriantha plant and some basic gardening tools like pruners and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining, with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. For containers, use a pot at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young plant into your prepared container or garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow up to 10 meters.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, depending on local climate. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage fruiting and maintain plant health. Harvest fruits in autumn when they are ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting winter protection, and not providing enough support for the vine.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Actinidia eriantha is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is commonly consumed fresh but may also be used in various preparations such as jams or preserves.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Actinidiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Actinidiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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